Former Minardi owner: 'He should have had four titles'

Former Minardi owner Paul Stoddart is this week's guest on Formula 1's Beyond The Grid podcast. Fernando Alonso made his Formula 1 debut at Minardi. In the podcast, Stoddart discussed the Spaniard's unique career.

Alonso made his debut with Stoddart's team in 2001. Even before Alonso made his debut, the Australian was very impressed by the two-time World Champion to be. Alonso won a rain race in Formula 3000 at Spa-Francorchamps in dominant fashion, with this the Spanish driver put himself on the map. "He was destined to be champion and I was not wrong. He just should have had four titles instead of two." The Australian hinted that Alonso may not have made the most of his career.

Stoddart on continuing Alonso

Alonso left Formula 1 after the 2018 season with McLaren. He returned to the Alpine team in 2021 and now drives with the Aston Martin team. Meanwhile, the Spaniard is the driver who has driven the most races ever in Formula 1 and there seems to be no end in sight for the time being. The fact that Alonso has still not quit is no surprise to Stoddart. "No I am not really surprised. If you are good enough, which Fernando is and if you are determined enough, you can go on for a long time. He's still up there with them. And the race craft, the ability, the natural talent, the hunger, it's all still there."